Earl “Pappaw” Allen, 78, of Utica, KY, passed away on July 9, 2026. He was born on January 16, 1948, to the late James Earl and Phyllis Jean (Pugh) Allen.
Before his retirement, Pappaw dedicated more than 30 years to Modern Welding and later spent over a decade as a semi-truck driver. He was a proud member of AMVETS. Pappaw loved staying active and enjoyed playing basketball, softball, pool, and fishing. He was an avid University of Kentucky fan who rarely missed the chance to watch a game. He never met a stranger, loved dancing and singing karaoke, and had a remarkable way of making everyone feel like family—whether they were related by blood or simply by love.
Those left to cherish Pappaw’s memory include his loving wife of over 59 years, Patricia (Hayden) Allen; his children, Mary McCormick, Anne McElwain, and Jeanna Breitwieser; his grandchildren, Cathy Carroll, Kristin (Chris) Goodman, Jimmy (Casey) Carroll, Theresa Rickertsen, Olivia McElwain, Chris (Hayley) McElwain, and Willie Canary; his great-grandchildren, Jayce Carroll, Piper Goodman, Chloe Carroll, Jacob Carroll, Kota Newton, Jaxon Newton, Bella Boggess, Gage Powers, and Lennox McElwain; his siblings, Dennis (Doris) Allen, Darlene Allen, and Debbie (Wayne) Duncan, and many cherished extended family members.
In addition to his parents, Pappaw is preceded in death by his sister, Linda Jean, and his son-in-law, Greg Breitwieser.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, with Father John Ighacho presiding. Friends and family are invited to visitation at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with prayer service lead by Pastor Anthony Cobb at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will resume at St. Anthony Catholic Church on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of mass. A private family burial will take place at St. Anthony Church Cemetery at a later date.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations made payable to Dream Riders of Kentucky, Inc. at 4705 Winkler Rd, Philpot, KY 42366. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with Earl “Pappaw” Allen’s care. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mr. Allen and sign their virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.